Spotify is introducing a long-requested level of control for its users, allowing them to disable unwanted videos on Spotify across its various subscription tiers. The update, which begins rolling out globally this month, enables listeners on Free, Basic, and Premium plans to opt out of video content for music and podcasts, as well as the short, looping “Canvas” visuals that often accompany songs.
For many users, the shift toward a more visual interface has been a point of contention. While Spotify has leaned heavily into a “TikTok-style” discovery feed and immersive visuals to keep users engaged, a significant portion of the audience still views the app as a utility for audio. By providing a toggle to return to an audio-centric interface, the company is attempting to balance its growth as a multimedia platform with the needs of those who prefer a traditional listening experience.
In a statement regarding the update, Spotify noted that these new controls allow listeners to choose whether “to maintain an audio-first experience or layer in a richer, video-enhanced one.” This flexibility is particularly relevant for users concerned about battery longevity or data consumption, as video streaming—even in short loops—demands more system resources than high-quality audio alone.
Expanded Controls for Family Plan Managers
Beyond individual preferences, Spotify is updating its governance tools for those managing shared accounts. Starting this week, managers of family plans have expanded authority over the visual experience of their members. Previously, the ability to disable videos was restricted to managed accounts for listeners under the age of 13.
The new update removes this age restriction, allowing family plan managers to adjust video settings for any member account linked to their plan. This change provides parents and household administrators with more granular control over how younger or more distracted users interact with the app, ensuring that the environment remains focused on audio if desired.
However, this “audio-first” mode is not an absolute removal of all visuals. Spotify clarified that users will still encounter video ads and certain Canvas-like visuals within audio advertisements, regardless of whether the general video settings are disabled. This ensures that the company’s advertising revenue streams remain intact while giving users control over the organic content they consume.
The Strategy Behind the “TikTok-ification” of Music
From a technical and product perspective, Spotify’s push toward video is part of a broader industry trend. By integrating short-form video, Spotify is competing more directly with platforms like TikTok and YouTube, where visual discovery often precedes the actual act of listening. The “Canvas” feature—the 8-second looping visuals—was designed to increase song shares and artist engagement.
However, for the power user, these additions can feel like “feature creep.” As a former software engineer, I recognize that adding these layers increases the app’s memory footprint and can lead to a more cluttered user interface (UI). The ability to disable unwanted videos on Spotify is a nod to the “minimalist” user who views the app as a tool for music delivery rather than a social media feed.
This update arrives during a period of transition for the company. Earlier this year, Spotify adjusted its pricing models, raising the Premium Individual subscription to $13 per month in several markets. At the same time, the company has been aggressively rolling out AI-driven features, including “Taste Profile” and “AI Prompted Playlists,” which employ generative AI to curate music based on descriptive text prompts.
How to Disable Videos in the Spotify App
The rollout is happening in phases, meaning some users may not see the option immediately. Once the update reaches your account, you can manage your visual preferences across mobile, desktop, TV, and web platforms using the following steps:
- Open the Settings menu within the Spotify app.
- Navigate to the Content and display section.
- Locate the toggles for Canvas looping visuals and videos for music or podcasts.
- Switch these settings to “Off” to return to an audio-only experience.
Because these settings are synced to the account level, a change made on a mobile device will automatically apply to the desktop application and any smart TV integrations, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of the hardware.
Summary of Visual Control Changes
| Account Tier | Individual Control | Family Manager Control | Ad-Video Exemption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Yes | Yes | Still Visible |
| Basic | Yes | Yes | Still Visible |
| Premium | Yes | Yes | Still Visible |
As Spotify continues to evolve its AI integration and visual discovery tools, this update serves as a necessary safety valve for users who find the app’s trajectory too far removed from its original purpose. The next expected milestone for the platform will be the full global deployment of these settings, with the company expected to monitor user adoption rates to determine if further “audio-only” modes are necessary for the future of the interface.
Do you prefer the immersive visuals of Canvas, or are you switching back to an audio-first experience? Let us know in the comments or share this article with a fellow listener.
